The Delhi High Court is set to hear Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s petition today, challenging his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the alleged liquor policy scam. This comes after Kejriwal's request for two additional video conferencing meetings with his lawyers was denied by the Rouse Avenue court on July 1.
Special judge Kaveri Baweja dismissed the application, noting that Kejriwal's counsel failed to present convincing reasons for additional legal meetings. The judge emphasised that the grounds presented were previously discussed and rejected in an earlier order. The court highlighted that a similar application was already dismissed on April 10, 2024, reinforcing the decision to deny Kejriwal’s recent request.
Kejriwal's legal team argued that he is involved in around 30 litigations nationwide, necessitating more frequent consultations with his lawyers to ensure a fair trial. They also mentioned his recent arrest in another case by the CBI and pointed out that co-accused Sanjay Singh was previously granted additional legal meetings in February 2024.
During the hearing, the CBI argued that Kejriwal was uncooperative during his police custody remand. They claimed that he provided evasive answers and failed to explain the increase in the profit margin for wholesalers from 5% to 12% under the new Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. The agency maintained that, based on the evidence, further custodial interrogation of Kejriwal was not necessary at this stage.
The controversy surrounding Kejriwal's arrest began on June 26 when the CBI detained him after obtaining permission from a Vacation Judge of the Delhi Court.
The court had allowed the CBI to interrogate Kejriwal in the courtroom, paving the way for his formal arrest. The court also directed the CBI to present the material evidence justifying his arrest.
The alleged liquor policy scam has been a point of contention, with accusations of financial irregularities and favouritism in the formulation and implementation of the policy.
The policy, introduced in 2021, aimed to revamp the liquor trade in Delhi but faced criticism and allegations of corruption. As the Delhi High Court prepares to hear Kejriwal’s petition, the case continues to draw significant attention.
The outcome of the hearing could have major implications for both Kejriwal and the broader political landscape in Delhi. Kejriwal’s supporters argue that the arrest is politically motivated, while his critics insist that the legal process must take its course.
The hearing today will be crucial in determining the next steps in this high-profile case, as Kejriwal seeks relief from what his legal team describes as unjust treatment by the CBI. The court's decision will be closely watched, with significant ramifications for the Chief Minister and his party.
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